Meet Lauren Kilgore!
Meet Lauren Kilgore! Lauren is a Civil Engineering Analyst based in Atlanta, Georgia, whose work focuses on creating safer, more connected communities through thoughtful infrastructure design. Her journey into civil engineering began with a childhood curiosity: visiting construction sites and watching ideas turn into reality. Today, she continues to bring that same curiosity and dedication to her projects, shaping spaces where people live, move, and connect.
In this blog, Lauren shares her story! From navigating the challenges of being a woman and a minority in engineering to leading initiatives that support young professionals through ASCE Georgia. Her experiences highlight the power of perseverance, mentorship, and representation in shaping the next generation of civil engineers.
Read on to learn what drives Lauren, what she’s most proud of, and her advice for those building their own path in civil engineering.
Quick facts:
Pronouns: She/her/hers
Location: Atlanta, Georgia
What inspired her to join this field?
“My journey in civil engineering started with a unique opportunity I had growing up: visiting construction sites with a family member. Watching ideas on paper take shape in the real world fascinated me, and I was especially drawn to the problem-solving that went into every project. I also knew early on that I was strong in math and science, and civil engineering felt like the perfect way to combine those strengths with my interest in building and improving communities. What I love most about my work is seeing the direct impact it has, creating safer roadways, improving walkability, and contributing to infrastructure that makes life better for others. Every project brings new challenges and solving them alongside a collaborative team is incredibly rewarding. I want others to know that civil engineering isn’t just about designing roads or bridges. It’s about shaping the spaces where people live, work, and connect. It’s a career that challenges you, inspires you, and allows you to leave a meaningful, lasting mark on the world."
What challenges has she faced, and how has she overcome them?
“One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my journey as a civil engineer is being both a woman and a minority in a field where people like me are still underrepresented. On top of that, I came from a small engineering program at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, which didn’t offer an industry-related CAD class before I started my internships. Walking into the professional world without that experience was intimidating, and at times I felt like I was already behind. I overcame these challenges by leaning into my strengths, asking questions, and not being afraid to learn on the go. I found mentors who believed in me, built a strong support network through organizations like ASCE, and put in the time outside of work to build the skills I needed to succeed. Over time, I gained confidence in my abilities and learned that my unique background and perspective are not just valuable, they are needed. These experiences have taught me the importance of resilience, speaking up, and supporting others who are navigating similar paths. I hope to inspire and mentor those coming after me, just as others did for me.”
What’s something she is proud of in her career?
“Something I’m especially proud of in my career is the growth I’ve experienced by stepping into leadership roles and pushing myself outside my comfort zone. Serving on the ASCE Georgia Younger Member Group Board and now as the Director of Younger Members has given me the opportunity to connect with and support other young professionals, helping to build a stronger community within our industry. I am also honored to have been named one of ACEC Georgia’s 35 Under 35 Women to Know in Engineering for 2025, a recognition that motivates me to continue striving for excellence and advocating for greater representation in our field. Most of all, I’m proud that I haven’t given up. I’ve learned not to let the bad days cloud the good ones and to keep moving forward with purpose. Being a good role model to my little brothers has been a huge source of motivation for me, showing them that with hard work and perseverance, they can achieve anything they set their minds to.”
What does being a Girl in Civil mean to her?
“Being a girl in civil engineering means showing up every day in a space where women are still underrepresented and proving that we belong here. It means using my voice, my skills, and my perspective to contribute to projects that make a real difference in people’s lives. To me, it’s also about paving the way for the next generation, showing young women that this field is for them too. It’s about resilience, breaking barriers, and redefining what leadership in engineering looks like. Being a girl in civil is more than just a title. It’s a commitment to using my experiences to inspire others, to keep pushing for greater representation, and to never forget why I chose this path: to build a better future for the communities we serve.”
What advice does she give to others entering the field or those needing encouragement to stay?
“My advice to anyone entering the field or needing encouragement to stay is to remember that growth takes time and challenges are part of the process. You don’t have to have all the answers on day one. What matters is showing up, asking questions, and being willing to learn. Find mentors who will support you, surround yourself with people who push you to be better, and don’t be afraid to take up space in rooms where you might feel out of place at first. Most importantly, don’t let the tough days make you forget why you started. Civil engineering is about building a better future, and your voice and perspective are an important part of that.”
